How long should I wear gauze after tooth extraction? This question often arises in the minds of many individuals who are about to undergo this common dental procedure. When a tooth is removed, whether it’s a wisdom tooth or any other, one may wonder about the appropriate duration for which gauze should be applied to the extraction site. Is it merely a matter of a few hours, or should it extend throughout the entire day? Furthermore, do varying factors such as the complexity of the extraction, the amount of bleeding, and the specific instructions provided by your dentist significantly influence this duration? Could the choice of gauze material and thickness also play a critical role? What signs should one look for to determine if it is time to replace or remove the gauze? In light of these considerations, how can one ensure proper healing while minimizing discomfort and the risk of complications?